1 Mar 1979
For the first time, Broadmeadows looked to Germany (and specifically the Ford Granada) rather than to America, for Falcon design inspiration.
The result was the very crisp and glassy XD. But it still drove like the carryover XC Falcon its mechanicals were based upon, unlike the German Opel-derived Holden VB Commodore.
The GL badge replaced fleet “Falcon” and “500” as the base models. Weight-saving plastic abounded.
The standard GL spec included an 82kW/228Nm 3.3L in-line OHV six (I6) mated to a column-shift 3-speed manual (a floor-mounted 4-speeder was optional), though most buyers chose the 3-speed auto.
Space and fuel economy advantages over its Holden Commodore rival saw the XD eventually topple it after a slow sales start. Standard features: Reclining bucket seats, front folding armrest, childproof door locks, carpet, AM radio, radial tyres, front disc brakes, hazard flashers, halogen headlights, rear wiper/washer (wagon only).
Engine options: 94kW/295Nm 4.1L I6, 140kW/344Nm 4.9L V8, 193kW/415Nm 5.8L V8 (not wagon)
